The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is leading a major rescue operation after the Liberian-flagged container vessel MSC ELSA 3 developed a severe 26-degree list approximately 38 nautical miles southwest of Kochi on 24 May 2025.

The vessel, which had departed from Vizhinjam Port on 23 May en route to Kochi, issued a distress alert earlier in the day.

Responding promptly, the ICG launched a coordinated rescue effort, deploying ships and aircraft to assist the stricken vessel. Of the 24 crew members onboard, nine have been rescued so far, with operations ongoing to evacuate the remaining 15.

ICG aircraft have airdropped additional life-rafts to aid in the evacuation. The Directorate General of Shipping, working alongside the ICG, has instructed the ship’s management to arrange immediate salvage support to stabilise the vessel and prevent further escalation.